By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) on Monday commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards for Oyo State. The group made the commendation in a statement signed by its Chairman, Isaac Abrak. It described the approval as a major step toward strengthening security in Oyo State and across Nigeria. The initiative aims to improve surveillance, intelligence gathering, and crime prevention in forested areas. The NCYP also urged the Federal Government to implement the programme without delay.
NCYP Applauds Expansion of Forest Guard Initiative
According to the group, the approval reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing insecurity nationwide.
The NCYP noted that the decision aligns with its earlier call for the expansion of the Forest Guard programme to all states.
The organisation said extending the initiative beyond selected states would improve security operations and reduce criminal activities in forest corridors.
Group Warns Against Delays in Deployment
However, the NCYP cautioned against delays in implementing the initiative.
The group cited Plateau State, where a similar approval has yet to result in operational deployment months after its announcement.
It recalled that following deadly attacks and rising insecurity in rural communities, the Federal Government approved the recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards for Plateau State.
Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the approval on January 27, 2026.
According to the NCYP, the initiative was designed to deny criminal groups safe havens within forested areas.
Forest Guards Should Be Recruited from Local Communities
The organisation called for the immediate establishment and operationalisation of Forest Guards in all states.
It argued that a nationwide framework would strengthen surveillance and support ongoing security operations.
Furthermore, the NCYP urged authorities to recruit Forest Guards from host and forest communities.
The group explained that local residents understand the terrain better than outsiders.
It added that community members can identify hidden routes and suspicious movements more effectively.
As a result, they can provide valuable intelligence to security agencies.
Need for Strong Inter-Agency Collaboration
The NCYP reaffirmed its support for initiatives that promote national security and protect lives and property.
The group also expressed confidence in the appointment of retired Major General Adeyinka A. Famadewa as Special Adviser on Homeland Security.
It said the appointment could improve coordination and accelerate the implementation of critical security policies.
In addition, the organisation urged the Federal Government to strengthen collaboration among security agencies.
According to the NCYP, delays in executing approved security measures weaken their impact and create opportunities for criminal elements.
NCYP Commends Rescue Efforts in Oyo State
The group also praised the Federal Government and security agencies for their efforts in rescuing kidnapped teachers and pupils in Oyo State.
Nevertheless, it stressed that security policies must move beyond announcements.
The NCYP maintained that recruitment, training, and deployment remain essential for achieving lasting security outcomes across the country.
